Assets, Facilities, Products, and Designs Acquired by MidTex Aviation for Resurrection as Enstrom Aerospace

The recently defunct Enstrom Helicopter Corporation may soon rise from the dead, following the purchase of its remains by MidTex Aviation.

Enstrom declared bankruptcy in January citing severe financial difficulties, allowing its assets to be sold off by a Michigan court. MidTex was able to purchase nearly everything from the company, including pre-owned aircraft, tooling, materials, drawings, intellectual property, and factory equipment. MidTex says they will reopen the factory for operation through a new subsidiary entity named Enstrom Aerospace, retaining the original, 64-year old brand name. The new company aims to not just build new Enstrom helicopters, but provide parts and support while expanding its portfolio of engineering services and component manufacturing.

MidTex has retained a number of former Enstrom employees, contracted to the firm with plans to enter into long-term employment agreements after the acquisition is complete. Michael Dixon, aviation manager for MidTex, sees a great deal of promise in the deal.

“Not only will we get a turn-key helicopter manufacturer with a great brand and an established customer base, we will also get an excellent springboard to launch an aerostructures and component manufacturing business,” said Dixon. “Most people don’t realize that Enstrom was vertically integrated, building nearly 90 per cent of the helicopters under one roof. They had the facilities to build almost anything.”

“Enstrom had a great relationship with the FAA, and a proven track record of getting certifications quickly and efficiently. Likewise, we look forward to working with the FAA to expand to other aerospace projects, including electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, fixed-wing, military equipment, and other advanced air mobility products,” added Dixon..

He isn’t the only executive excited about “This was the best possible outcome," said former president Matt Francour. "There are a lot of Enstrom helicopter owners out there who have been holding their breath, and now they can breathe a sigh of relief.”

One erstwhile Enstrom alum, Dennis Martin, said the buy will see the company in better shape than ever. “Not only will MidTex bring financial backing to operate the facilities and expand the business – it has a real vision for the future that goes beyond just building helicopters. MidTex plans to invest and grow the company in a meaningful way.”

FMI: www.enstromhelicopter.com